Click for Cookbook LOGIN
"A man who was fond of wine was offered some grapes at dessert after dinner. "Much obliged," said he, pushing the plate aside; "I am not accustomed to take my wine in pills."--Jean Antheleme Brillat-Savarin, The Physiology of Taste

Tamales Recipe

  Tried it? Rate this Recipe:
 

 

This recipe for Tamales is from MLHS Class of 2023 Cookbook, one of the cookbooks created at FamilyCookbookProject.com. We'll help you start your own personal cookbook! It's easy and fun. Click here to start your own cookbook!


Category:
Category:

Ingredients:  
Ingredients:  
2 Cups of Corn Masa
1 teaspoon of salt
¼ teaspoon of baking powder
1½ cups of water
1 pound of Shredded Pork
1 tablespoon of cumin
1 tablespoon of chili powder
Corn Husks

Directions:
Directions:
First, prepare the dough by mixing the corn masa, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix. Gradually stir in the water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and forms a soft, pliable ball when done set it aside.
Next, prepare the filling by combining the shredded pork, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices. To assemble the tamales, soak the corn husks in hot water for at least 10 minutes, or until they are soft. Drain the husks or leaves and pat them dry with a towel.
To assemble each tamale, spread a thin layer of dough onto the center of a corn husk. Then put a small amount of the filling onto the center of the dough. Fold the sides of the husk or leaf over the filling, overlapping them to enclose the filling completely. Fold the bottom of the husk securing the tamale.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling to make additional tamales. Place the tamales in a steamer basket or on a rack in a large pot. Add enough water to the pot to reach the bottom of the steamer basket or rack, but not high enough to touch the tamales.
Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and steam the tamales for 1 to 2 hours, or until the dough is cooked through and the filling is heated through. Check the water level in the pot periodically and add more water as needed to prevent the pot from boiling dry.
To serve the tamales, carefully remove them from the steamer basket or pot using tongs. Unwrap the tamales and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve the tamales with salsa, sour cream, diced onions, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. Enjoy!

Number Of Servings:
Number Of Servings:
12
Preparation Time:
Preparation Time:
2 hours
Personal Notes:
Personal Notes:
When making tamales, one must have patience. The corn husks must be soaked and softened, and the dough must be mixed and spread with care. If the tamales are rushed, they will come out tough and chewy, like a worn-out shoe. Make sure to use the freshest corn masa and butter, and mix them together until the dough is smooth and silky. As the tamales steam in the pot, the aroma of corn and savory fillings will fill the kitchen, tempting and teasing the taste buds. When the tamales are done, they will be soft and tender, with a delicate flavor that is both savory and sweet. Tamales are a celebration of food and culture, and they bring people together with their warmth and comfort. Like a hug from a loved one, tamales are a reminder of home, and the love and care that goes into making them.

 

 

 

Learn more about the process to create a cookbook -- or
Start your own personal family cookbook right now!  Here's to good eating!

Search for more great recipes here from over 1,500,000 in our family cookbooks!

 

 

 

65W  

Cookbooks are great for Holiday Gifts, Wedding Gifts, Bridal Shower ideas and Family Reunions!

*Recipes and photos entered into the Family Cookbook Project are provided by the submitting contributors. All rights are retained by the contributor. Please contact us if you believe copyright violations have occurred.


Search for more great recipes here from over 1,500,000 in our family cookbooks!